Systems, methods, and devices for multi-energy x-ray imaging

ABSTRACT

A system can have an x-ray source that generates a series of individual x-ray pulses for multi-energy imaging. A first x-ray pulse can have a first energy level and a subsequent second x-ray pulse in the series can have a second energy level different from the first energy level. An x-ray imager can receive the x-rays from the x-ray source and can detect the received x-rays for image generation. A generator interface box (GIB) controls the x-ray source to provide the series of individual x-ray pulses and synchronizes detection by the x-ray imager with generation of the individual x-ray pulses. The GIB can control x-ray pulse generation and synchronization to optimize image generation while minimizing unnecessary x-ray irradiation.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims the benefit of U.S. application Ser. No.62/446,246, filed Jan. 13, 2017, which is hereby incorporated byreference herein in its entirety.

FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to x-ray imaging, and moreparticularly, to systems, methods, and devices for imaging using x-raysof different energy levels, for example, dual energy x-ray imaging.

SUMMARY

Embodiments of the disclosed subject, an imaging system uses x-rays ofdifferent energy levels to image a patient or object. The imaging systemincludes a customizable module, for example, a generator interface box(GIB), that controls and synchronizes various components of the imagingsystem, such that the patient or object can be sequentially exposed tox-ray pulses of different energies and the modulated x-rays passingthrough the patient or object can be detected to form a composite image.The components of the imaging system and control thereof by the GIB canprovide for real-time imaging at the different energy levels.

In one or more embodiments, a system can include an x-ray source, anx-ray imager, and a generator interface box. The x-ray source cangenerate a series of individual x-ray pulses. The series can include atleast a first x-ray pulse having a first energy level and a second x-raypulse having a second energy level different from the first energylevel. The x-ray imager is disposed so as to receive x-rays from thex-ray tube and to detect the received x-rays for image generation. Thegenerator interface box is configured to control the x-ray source toprovide the first and second x-ray pulses and to synchronize detectionby the x-ray imager with generation of the individual x-ray pulses.

In one or more embodiments, a method includes, using a generatorinterface box, controlling an x-ray source to generate a series ofindividual x-ray pulses during respective image frames. The series caninclude at least a first x-ray pulse and a subsequent second x-ray pulsehaving a different energy level than that of the first x-ray pulse. Themethod can further include, using the generator interface box,synchronizing image readout by an x-ray imager with a readout period ofeach image frame. The method can also include, using a computerprocessing unit, processing signals from the x-ray imager duringrespective image frames to generate one or more images of a patient orobject through which the first and second x-ray pulses have passed.

In one or more embodiments, there are provided a non-transitorycomputer-readable storage medium, upon which is embodied a sequence ofprogrammed instructions for x-ray imaging, and a computer processingsystem that executes the sequence of programmed instructions embodied onthe computer-readable storage medium. Execution of the sequence ofprogrammed instructions can cause the computer processing system tocontrol an x-ray source to generate series of individual x-ray pulses,and to synchronize image readout by an x-ray imager with a readoutperiod of each image frame. The series can include at least a firstx-ray pulse and subsequent second x-ray pulse having a different energylevel than that of the first x-ray pulse.

Objects and advantages of embodiments of the disclosed subject matterwill become apparent from the following description when considered inconjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

Embodiments will hereinafter be described with reference to theaccompanying drawings, which have not necessarily been drawn to scale.These drawings are for illustration purposes only and are not intendedto limit the scope of the present disclosure in any way. Whereapplicable, some features may not be illustrated to assist in theillustration and description of underlying features. Throughout thefigures, like reference numerals denote like elements. As used herein,various embodiments can mean one, some, or all embodiments.

FIG. 1 illustrates components of an x-ray imaging system, according toembodiments of the disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 2 is a simplified schematic diagram illustrating setup of variouscomponents and modules of an x-ray imaging system, according toembodiments of the disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 3A is a simplified schematic diagram illustrating a generatorinterface box, according to embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 3B illustrates a process flow employing a generator interface box,according to embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 4A illustrates a first configuration of an x-ray tube, according toembodiments of the disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 4B is a timing diagram showing various waveforms for a dual-energyimaging system using an x-ray tube, where the filament current (If) isnot able to adjust to filament temperature, thereby resulting in anincorrect beam current (Ib).

FIG. 4C is a timing diagram showing various waveforms for a dual-energyimaging system using an x-ray tube, wherein the filament current (Ifil)is able to adjust to the filament temperature, thereby resulting in thedesired beam current (Ib).

FIG. 5A illustrates a second configuration of an x-ray tube with bothfilaments generating an x-ray pulse, according to embodiments of thedisclosed subject matter.

FIG. 5B illustrates the second configuration of an x-ray tube with asingle filament generating the x-ray pulse, according to embodiments ofthe disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 6A illustrates a third configuration of an x-ray tube with bothfilaments generating an x-ray pulse, according to embodiments of thedisclosed subject matter.

FIG. 6B illustrates the third configuration of an x-ray tube with asingle filament generating the x-ray pulse, according to embodiments ofthe disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 7A is a timing diagram illustrating a default timing scheme in dualenergy imaging, according to embodiments of the disclosed subjectmatter.

FIG. 7B is a timing diagram illustrating a timing scheme with shiftedhigh energy pulses, according to embodiments of the disclosed subjectmatter.

FIG. 7C is a timing diagram illustrating a timing scheme with pulseskipping, according to embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 7D is a timing diagram illustrating a timing scheme with pulsewidth variation, according to embodiments of the disclosed subjectmatter.

FIG. 8 is a timing diagram illustrating a timing scheme of dual energyimaging interlaced with irradiation pulses for effecting a radiationtreatment, according to embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 9 is a simplified schematic diagram of another x-ray sourcecontrolled by a generator interface box, according to embodiments of thedisclosed subject matter.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Embodiments of the disclosed subject matter can provide real-timemulti-energy (e.g., dual energy) x-ray imaging. For example, in a dualenergy configuration, two x-ray images can be rapidly acquired insuccession at two different x-ray energies (i.e., x-ray tube peak kilovoltage (kV or kVp) settings or even MeV settings). X-ray beams ofhigher energy (e.g., 100-150 kVp) are relatively more penetrating butproduce less contrast, because there is greater attenuation inradio-opaque objects (e.g., bone) but little attenuation in soft tissue.X-ray beams of lower energy (e.g., 50-100 kVp) are relatively lesspenetrating but produce higher contrast, because there is significantattenuation from both soft tissue and radio-opaque objects. By combiningimages acquired using x-ray beams of different energies, visualizationof specific features can be improved, e.g., by removing soft tissue froman image to emphasize radio-opaque structures or by removingradio-opaque features from an image to emphasize soft tissue features.For example, the dual images can be processed together to form a thirdimage that highlights one tissue or material type over another, therebyallowing visualization of anatomy or structure in an image that wouldotherwise be obscured or obstructed by overlaying anatomy or structure.

Fast switching between the x-ray energies used to generate the twoimages can prevent artifacts, for example, due to motion between images.Such motion can include, for example, external movement of the patientor object during imaging and interior motion of anatomy due to breathingor cardiac motion. In addition, larger separation between the x-rayenergy levels used to generate the two images leads to improvedtissue/material separation in the resulting images. Synchronization andhardware limitations may inhibit fast switching between such largeenergy separations; however, embodiments of the disclosed subject matterprovide synchronization and hardware features that address suchlimitations, among other things, thereby enabling real-time multi-energyimaging.

Referring to FIG. 1, an exemplary x-ray imaging system 100 for real-timemulti-energy (e.g., dual energy) imaging of a patient 102 (or otherobject) is shown. The patient 102 is held by support 104 (e.g., atreatment bed/couch or imaging conveyor belt) between an x-ray source onimaging head 108 and an x-ray imager on detection arm 110. The imaginghead 108 and detection arm 110 can be supported by gantry 106, which cantranslate and/or rotate imaging head 108 and detection arm 110 toprovide images at different orientations or locations within the patient102. The gantry 106 can be a ring gantry (i.e., it extends through afull 360° arc to create a complete ring or circle), but other types ofmounting arrangements may also be employed. For example, a static beam,or a C-type, partial ring gantry, or robotic arm can be used. Any otherframework capable of positioning the imaging head 108 and detection arm110 at various rotational and/or axial positions relative to the patient102 may also be used.

For example, the imaging head 108 can include high voltage generator 114that powers x-ray tube 116 to generate pulses 122 of x-rays to irradiatepatient 102. For example, generator 114 can power x-ray tube 116 togenerate at least a low energy x-ray pulse (e.g., 50-70 kVp) and a highenergy x-ray pulse (e.g., 110-140 kVp) in quick succession (e.g., on theorder of milliseconds). Other x-ray sources are also possible accordingto one or more contemplated embodiments. For example, x-ray tube 116and/or generator 114 may be replaced by a linear accelerator (linac), abetatron, a synchrotron, or any other type of x-ray source.

The generation of alternating high and low energy x-ray pulses (or otherintermediate energy level x-ray pulses) can be repeated to generate apulse train of x-rays to provide continuous imaging of the same ordifferent portions of patient 102. For example, each individual lowenergy x-ray pulse can be generated by applying a first voltage and/orcurrent to the x-ray tube 116 via generator 114, and each individualhigh energy x-ray pulse can be generated by applying a second voltageand/or current to the x-ray tube 116 via generator 114. The secondvoltage/current can be higher than the first voltage/current, therebycreating x-rays of the relatively higher energy level. X-ray irradiationmay cease (thereby defining an end of each pulse) by closing an apertureof the imaging head (not shown) or by modulating the voltage and/orcurrent supplied to the x-ray tube 116 to a level insufficient togenerate x-rays. In between pulses, the generator 114 may provide avoltage and/or current that is otherwise insufficient to generatex-rays. Alternatively, the voltage/current from generator 114 can beheld constant between and/or during pulses, e.g., as described belowwith respect to FIGS. 5A-6B.

For each x-ray pulse, the resulting x-rays modulated by the anatomy ofpatient 102 can be received by imager 112 and can generate electricalsignals indicative of the modulated x-rays. For example, the x-rayimager can be a flat panel detector or a combination of ascintillator/image-intensifier with photodetector array. The electricalsignals can be conveyed from the imager 112 to a control module 124, forexample, where the signals are processed to form respective images foreach x-ray pulse. As noted above, the images obtained via the differentenergy level x-ray pulses can be combined together to form a compositeimage highlighting different materials or tissues. For example, theimages can be combined via logarithmic subtraction after applying aweighting factor (see, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 8,019,044, entitled“Image acquisition for dual energy imaging,” and incorporated byreference herein).

The imaging head 108 can further support beam modification module 118,which may be used to change characteristics of the x-ray pulse emanatingfrom x-ray tube 116. Beam modification module 118 can thus includecollimators, filter elements, apertures, etc. For example, beammodification module 118 can include an array of switchable filterelements 120 that can be moved into the x-ray beam path on command, forexample by control module 124. Control of the filter elements 120 may besynchronized with the particular x-ray pulses, such that beammodification module 118 adapts the filter elements 120 in the beam pathbased on the desired x-ray pulse energy to modify the energy spectrumthereof. When the low energy x-ray plus is desired, one of the filterelements 120 (or a particular configuration of multiple filter elements120) can be moved into the beam path. When the high energy x-ray pulseis desired, another one of the filter elements 120 (alternatively, nofilter elements 120 or another configuration of multiple filter elements120) can be moved into the beam path. For example, a rapidlyconfigurable beam modification module can include multiple overlappingleaves as switchable filter elements, as described in U.S. PublicationNo. 2014/0270069, entitled “Real-time moving collimators with x-rayfiltering material,” which is hereby incorporated by reference herein inits entirety.

Alternatively or additionally, a filter module (not shown) can beprovided between patient 102 and the imager 112. In such aconfiguration, the modulated x-rays emanating from patient 102 wouldpass through the selected filters before being detected by imager 112,thus altering the energy spectrum received by imager 112. As with thebeam modification module 118, control of the filter module may besynchronized with the particular x-ray pulses, such that the filterelements in the modulated x-ray beam path are based on the desired x-raypulse energy level. However, such a configuration may unnecessarilyexpose patient 102 to higher x-ray energy levels than would occur in theconfiguration of filter elements 120 between x-ray tube 116 and patient102.

Operation of the different components of system 100 can be synchronizedby controller 124. For example, controller 124 can control x-ray source234 (e.g., generator 114, x-ray tube 116), and/or beam modificationmodule 118 (e.g., by sending appropriate synchronization and/or commandsignals) to generate an x-ray pulse directed at a particular anatomy(e.g., by controlling support 104 and gantry 106 to direct the x-rayradiation at the desired location). At a same time, control module 124can further control operation of imager 110 (e.g., by sending anappropriate synchronization signal thereto) such that exposure andread-out windows coincide with x-ray on and off periods associated witheach x-ray pulse.

The controller 120 can include a computer with typical hardware such asa processor, and an operating system for running various softwareprograms and/or communication applications. The computer can includesoftware programs that operate to communicate with components internalto system 100, which software programs are operable to receive data fromexternal software programs and hardware. The computer can also includeany suitable input/output devices adapted to be accessed by medicalpersonnel, as well as input/output (I/O) interfaces, storage devices,memory, keyboard, mouse, monitor, printers, scanner, trigger handswitch, etc. The computer can also be networked with other computers andimaging systems. Both imaging system 100 and controller 124 cancommunicate with a network as well as databases and servers. Thecontroller 124 can be configured to transfer image related data betweendifferent pieces of equipment.

The system 100 can also include a plurality of modules containingprogrammed instructions (e.g., as part of controller 124, or as separatemodules within system 100, or integrated into other components of system100), which instructions cause system 100 to perform different functionsrelated to multi-energy imaging, as discussed herein, when executed. Forexample, system 100 can include image processing and synchronizationmodules that provide real-time multi-energy imaging. The modules can bewritten in C or C++ programming languages, for example. Computer programcode for carrying out operations as described herein may also be writtenin other programming languages.

Referring to FIG. 2, a simplified schematic diagram illustrating setupof system 100 components and modules is shown. As noted above,controller 124 can be operatively connected to various components ofsystem 100 to control and synchronize operation thereof. In embodiments,controller 124 includes generator interface box (GIB) 202, input/output(I/O) module 204, and computer processing unit (CPU) 206. I/O module 204can communicate with GIB 202 via communication line 208 and/or CPU 206via communication line 232, for example, to convey one or more signalsfrom external to controller 124. Such signals can include, but are notlimited to, an external sync signal input 226 (e.g., a breathing orcardiac signal from patient 202, a user-generated waveform, or otherexternal signal), a trigger switch signal input 228 (e.g., a triggercommand from a hand-switch activated by a user of system 100), and imagesetup 230 (e.g., patient or anatomy data that GIB 202 may use incontrolling system operation). Other inputs and outputs (not shown) fromI/O module 204 are also possible according to one or more contemplatedembodiments.

CPU 206 can receive signals from imager 112, for example, viacommunication line 212 indicative of the x-ray radiation received byimager 112 for each x-ray pulse and can use said signals to generaterespective images. For example, when a high energy x-ray pulse and a lowenergy x-ray pulse are used, the CPU 206 can form separate first andsecond images and then combine the first and second images into a thirdcomposite image. In some embodiments, CPU 206 combines data underlyingthe first and second images to form the third composite image withoutactually forming (i.e., storing) the first and second images. Forexample, CPU 206 can process the first and second images usinglogarithmic subtraction and/or weighting to generate the third compositeimage. Alternatively, image processing may be performed external tosystem 100, for example, by a remote processing unit (not shown) thatcommunicates with controller 124 via I/O module 204.

In some embodiments, the first image acquired from the high energy x-raypulse and the second image acquired from the low energy x-ray pulse canbe corrected prior to combination. For example, the first and secondimages can be corrected using a pair of separately acquired flat fieldimages (i.e., images taken with no object or patient in the beam path)in order to correct system non-uniformities. Alternatively oradditionally, the first and second images can be corrected using theweighting method as described in U.S. Pat. No. 9,530,196, entitled“Reducing heel effect in dual energy x-ray images,” which is herebyincorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

GIB 202 can be a microcontroller-based interface hardware and firmwarethat synchronizes operation of the different system 100 components togenerate multi-energy x-ray images. Thus, GIB 202 may be operativelyconnected to one or more of x-ray source 234 (e.g., generator 114, x-raytube 116), beam modification module 118, x-ray imager 112, pulsesynchronization circuit (not shown, but can be integrated with GIB), I/Omodule 204, and CPU 206. For example, GIB 202 may be operativelyconnected to generator 114 via a sync line 216 and a communication line218. A sync signal to coordinate operation (e.g., on-off timing) can besent from GIB 202 to generator 114 via sync line 216, whilecommunication line 218 may be used to provide two-way communication ofother information (e.g., selection of x-ray energy level) between GIB202 and generator 114. In addition, generator 114 can be connected tox-ray tube 116 via power supply lines 220, which can provide currentand/or voltage to x-ray tube 116 in generating the specific x-raypulses.

In some embodiments, GIB 202 may also be operatively connected to x-raytube 116 via sync line 222, for example, when x-ray tube 116 includesone or more grids to control electron output from one or more filamentsof x-ray tube 116 (see discussion of FIGS. 5A-6B below). GIB 202 canthus provide a signal to x-ray tube 116 to coordinate operation (e.g.,on-off timing) and/or energy level selection via sync line 222.

Similarly, GIB 202 can be operatively connected to beam modificationmodule 118 and imager 112 via communication line 224 and sync line 214,respectively. The sync signal to coordinate operation (e.g., on-offtiming) can be sent from GIB 202 to imager 112 via sync line 214 inorder to coordinate read-out timing of the imager 112 with timing of thex-ray pulse from tube 116. Communication line 224 may be used to send asignal from GIB 202 to beam modification module 118 in order to select aparticular filter element 120 configuration corresponding to the x-raypulse to be generated by x-ray tube 116.

GIB 202 can also be operatively connected to CPU 206, for example, viacommunication line 208 (e.g., a serial connection). GIB 202 and CPU 206may communicate with each other to coordinate aspects of the imagingprocess. For example, CPU 206 may process signals from imager 112 toform images for each x-ray pulse. In some embodiments, GIB 202 canterminate a particular x-ray pulse earlier than planned if sufficientimage quality is otherwise already achieved, as discussed below withrespect to FIG. 7D. CPU 206 may thus be configured to send a signalindicative of sufficient image quality to GIB 202 via line 208 for pulsetermination.

GIB 202 can synchronize operation based on an algorithm for selectingoptimized imaging parameters in order to maximize information in theresulting images. For example, GIB 202 can be programmed to take intoaccount constraints associated with each component (e.g., x-ray sourceswitching capability, imager frame rate, filter switching capability,etc.) and to select the best parameters for imaging a specific object oranatomy. For example, the high and low energy settings (i.e., kVp) andexposure level (i.e., mAs) may be different depending on the anatomybeing imaged (e.g., radiography versus mammography). GIB 202 can takethese factors into account in optimizing operation and synchronizationof system 100 components. Alternatively or additionally, GIB 202 canrely on predetermined recipes stored in a memory of the system (e.g.,memory 314 in FIG. 3) to control and synchronize operation or can beprogrammed based on user input or other external input.

Although specific communication/sync lines have been illustrated inFIGS. 1-2 and discussed above, embodiments of the disclosed subjectmatter are not limited to the illustrated configurations for signaltransmission between the different components. Indeed, signaltransmission can be effected in many other configurations besides thosespecifically illustrated. For example, signal transmission between GIB202 and x-ray tube 116 may be made via generator 114 or control of x-raytube 116 may be accomplished solely via control of generator 114, inwhich case sync line 222 may be omitted. In another example,communication between components may be routed through other componentsor a common sync/communication line, such as by combining sync lines216, 222, 224 between GIB 202 and the components of the imaging head 108(e.g., generator 114, x-ray tube 116, and beam modification module 118).

Alternatively or additionally, signal transmission between GIB 202 andthe different components can be performed wirelessly. Each component(e.g., x-ray source 234, beam modification module 118, and/or imager112) and GIB 202 can have a wireless receiver and, optionally, awireless transmitter (e.g., a transceiver). Data transmission betweenimager 112 and CPU 206 via communication line 212 may also be wireless.For example, such a wireless imager may be the PaxScan 4336W DigitalImage Receptor (manufactured by Varex Imaging of Salt Lake City, Utah).

FIG. 3A illustrates aspects of a system employing GIB 202 according tovarious embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. GIB 202 mayinclude, for example, a computer system that can implement one or moreaspects of the imaging and control processes described herein. Althoughshown as a single module 202, the functionality of module 202 can beimplemented as a distributed system or otherwise.

For example, GIB 202 can include a bus 310 or other mechanism forcommunicating information between components. GIB 202 can also include aprocessor 312, for example, a general or specific purpose processor,coupled to bus 310. I/O module 204 can be coupled to GIB 202 and can be,for example, a communication device such as a network interface cardthat provides access to a network, and/or input/output ports that allowa user to interact with GIB 202, for example, via user input devices(e.g., mouse, keyboard, etc.) and a display. A user can thus interactwith GIB 202 directly, remotely through a network, or via any othermeans.

GIB 202 can also include a memory 302 that stores information andinstructions to be executed by processor 312. Memory 302 can becomprised of any combination of random access memory (RAM), read onlymemory (ROM), static storage such as a magnetic or optical disk, or anyother type of computer readable media. For example, computer readablemedia may be any available media that can be accessed by processor 312and can include both volatile and nonvolatile media, removable andnon-removable media, and communication media. Communication media mayinclude computer readable instructions, data structures, program modulesor other data in a modulated data signal such as a carrier wave or othertransport mechanism and includes any information delivery media.

Memory 302 can store software modules that provide functionality whenexecuted by processor 312. The modules can include, for example, anoperating system 304, an algorithm module 306, and an additionalfunctionality module 308. The operating system 304 can provide operatingsystem functionality for the computer system of GIB 202. The algorithmmodule 306 can receive imaging setup data via I/O 204, can store thedata in a database 314, can select the optimal parameters for imaging aspecific object or anatomy while accounting for the constraints of eachcomponent of system 100, and/or can command signal generator 316 togenerate sync or other command signals, for example, as described aboveand elsewhere herein. Alternatively or additionally, database 314 caninclude recipes or other data used in selecting parameters forcomponents of system 100 or in generating the sync signals.Configurations and components for the GIB other than those illustratedin FIG. 3A are also possible according to one or more contemplatedembodiments.

As noted above, the GIB 202 can employ an algorithm, for example, toselect optimized imaging parameters in order to maximize information inthe resulting images. The algorithm can be based on minimizing, or atleast reducing, a radiation dose to the patient while maximizing, or atleast increasing, the amount of information obtainable from theresulting images. FIG. 3B shows an exemplary process flow diagram forGIB 202 employing such an algorithm. Thus, at S302, a process can beginby selecting a figure of merit (FOM). Such FOMs can include, but are notlimited to, signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), signal-to-dose ratio (SDNR),contrast-detail-to-dose (CDD), as well as other figures. The FOM may beselected by the GIB based on the type of imaging desired and/ortreatment to be performed. Alternatively, or additionally, an operatorof the imaging or treatment system may select an appropriate FOM.

The process proceeds to S304 where an anatomic phantom of differentsizes are used to optimize imaging parameters. The safe working limitsof the x-ray source (e.g., x-ray tube and corresponding generator) areknown and provide boundaries for determining optimal imaging parameters.Using these working limits and by performing imaging of a variety ofanatomic phantoms in a clinical setup, various combinations of tubecurrent, voltage, and x-ray pulse time can be determined to yield thebest results for the FOM selected. The results of the optimization ofS304 can be stored in a look-up table (LUT) at S306, which can be inputto the GIB 202 for use in determining optimal imaging sequences of highand low energy pulses. Such optimization S304 and LUT generation S306may be performed prior to imaging of a patient, for example, atinstallation of the GIB system or on a periodic basis (e.g., daily,weekly, monthly, etc.).

When a patient is to be imaged, the GIB 202 can be initialized at S308by selecting an imaging sequence from the LUT based on a phantom sizetherein closest to the anatomy being imaged and/or based on otherfactors (such as radiation treatment, movement of the anatomy, etc.).The GIB 202 can then control the various components of the imagingsystem to generate a pulse train of high energy and low energy pulsesaccording to the selected imaging sequence in order to image the patientat S310.

The GIB 202 can also allow for modification of the x-ray pulse train orother parameters in real-time, based on feedback from analysis of theresulting images. For example, at S312, the GIB 202 can evaluatedwhether the x-ray pulse train should be modified. Thus, the GIB 202 canallow the parameters for the next x-ray pulse to be modified at S314while the present x-ray pulse is being delivered. For example, the GIB202 can monitor the FOM in real-time and can update the imaging sequenceat S314 where the preselected values prove to be insufficient. Theupdated values for the imaging sequence may also be extracted from theLUT or otherwise determined by a formula. If the GIB 202 determines thatthe preselected values are sufficient based on monitoring of the FOM inreal-time, then the GIB 202 may continue the pulse train at S316 forfurther imaging at S310 until it is desirable to terminate imaging, forexample, by generating a final processed image at S318.

In addition to real-time modification of the x-ray pulse train forimaging, the GIB 202 can also provide real-time modification of othersystem parameters. For example, where the imaging system is coupled witha radiation treatment system, for example, to apply a treatment beam ofradiation to an imaged tumor, the GIB 202 can suggest modification ofthe treatment beam in real-time based on dual energy x-ray imageanalysis.

Turning to FIG. 4A, a first configuration of an x-ray tube 116 that maybe used in imaging system 100 is shown. X-ray tube 116 can include acathode filament 404 spaced from an anode 402. When generator 114applies an appropriate voltage/current to cathode filament 404,electrons 406 emanate from the cathode filament 404 and are acceleratedtoward anode 402. Impact of the electrons 406 with the anode 402material generate x-rays 408 that form each x-ray pulse. However, such aconfiguration for x-ray tube 116 may be limited in how quickly it canswitch between energy levels.

In particular, the x-ray tube 116 is limited by how quickly filament 404can heat up or cool down to adjust to the next energy level for anupcoming x-ray pulse. The inability of the x-ray tube filament to adjustto each requested beam current in a pulse train may damage the x-raytube and/or subject a patient to unnecessary x-ray exposure. Moreover,as the difference between energy levels for the x-ray pulse pairs isincreased, the difference in filament 404 temperatures is similarlyincreased, thereby increasing a wait time between each pulse. Forexample, FIG. 4B shows a graph of beam current (Ib), voltage (kV),trigger signal (Trigger), and filament current (If) for a pulse pairhaving a low-energy pulse (Pulse 1) and a high-energy pulse (Pulse 2),for the scenario when heating begins at the start of each pulse. sillustrated in FIG. 4B, the filament current If is not able to adjustthe filament temperature correctly due to its inherent time constant,thereby resulting in incorrect beam current Ib.

In particular, FIG. 4B shows the situation where the filament currentreturns to a baseline after exposure, which is optimal for neither thelow kV pulse nor the high kV pulse. During exposure with the low kVpulse, the filament current (If) is increased at the start of theexposure in an attempt to get the beam current (Ib) to the requestedvalue. The beam current (Ib) increases during the exposure as thefilament heats up. After exposure, the filament current returns to thebaseline. During exposure with the high kV pulse, the filament currentis too high and the beam current becomes much higher than the requestedamount. While the filament current is subsequently reduced, thereduction is too late to affect the beam current. Depending on thevalues, this incorrect x-ray output could have damaging consequences toboth, the x-ray track and tube, and could also over-expose the patientto x-ray radiation.

To avoid incorrect beam currents, it is desirable to ready the x-raytube filament for the upcoming pulse well before the start of the pulse(i.e., pre-heating) rather than at the start of the pulse. Pre-heatingthe filament to the correct temperature allows for the desired emissionof electrons, which are then accelerated to hit the anode and makex-rays. This may further enhance the accuracy and repeatability of thex-ray output. Such a result is illustrated in FIG. 4C, where beamcurrent (Ib), voltage (kV), and filament current (Ifil) for a pulse pairhaving a low-energy pulse (Pulse 1) and a high-energy pulse (Pulse 2),for the scenario where the temperature is raised to the correctintermediate and final state in between the two pulses. As illustratedin FIG. 4C, the correct filament output is obtained during the actualx-ray pulse.

In particular, FIG. 4C illustrates the scenario where the filamentcurrent is reset to either cool or heat the filament immediately afteran exposure, i.e., in anticipation of the next exposure. For example,after exposure with the low kV pulse, the cathode filament may be toohot for the next requested exposure with the high kV pulse. Accordingly,the filament can be cooled for an appropriate period of time prior tothe next exposure. After the high kV pulse, the cathode filament may betoo cool for the next low kV pulse. Accordingly, the filament can beheated prior to the next exposure. Thus, in embodiments of the disclosedsubject matter, the filament can be heated or cooled immediately afteran exposure (or as soon as is feasible after an exposure) in preparationfor the next exposure so that the beam current can be close to what isexpected for that exposure. For example, such heating and coolingoperations may be controlled by the GIB.

FIGS. 5A-5B illustrate a second configuration of an x-ray tube 502 thatcan be used to address the temperature induced switching limitations ofFIG. 4A. In particular, x-ray tube 502 includes more than one cathodefilament, for example, a first filament 504 and a second filament 508.Both filaments 504, 508 can be operatively connected to generator 114,which is controlled by GIB 202. In contrast to FIG. 4, thevoltage/current applied by generator 114 to each filament 504, 508 doesnot change in order to generate the pulses of different energies. Inother words, each filament 504, 508 is maintained at working currentduring each pulse (regardless of the energy level) and can optionally bemaintained at working current between pulses.

Control of the energy of the resulting pulses is achieved by applying avoltage to one or more control grids, for example, a first control grid506 disposed adjacent to the first filament 504 and a second controlgrid 510 disposed adjacent to the second filament 508. The voltageapplied to the control grid can be controlled between levels thatcompletely repel electrons ejected from the respective filament andlevels that completely allow electrons to pass through to the anode.Thus, the bias level of the control grids can control the electron beamfrom the filaments and consequently the x-ray output of the x-ray tube502. Operation of the control grids 506, 510 can be controlled by GIB202.

In FIG. 5A, both control grids 506 and 510 are held a voltage thatallows electrons 406 to pass to anode 402 via a focusing element 512(e.g., focusing cup) to generate a high energy x-ray beam 408. Incontrast, in FIG. 5B, control grid 510 is held at a voltage that repelselectrons from filament 508, such that only electrons 406 from filament504 are active on the anode 402, thereby generating a low energy x-raybeam 408. In a non-limiting simplified example to illustrate the abovenoted principles, each filament 504, 506 can be held at a workingcurrent effective to provide x-rays having an energy of 75 kVp. Thus, inthe configuration of FIG. 5A, the x-ray beam produced by both filaments504, 508 would have an energy of 150 kVp, and in the configuration ofFIG. 5B, the x-ray beam produced only by filament 504 would have anenergy of 75 kVp.

Other configurations employing grids and multiple filaments for enablingfast switching between x-ray energy levels are also possible accordingto one or more embodiments. For example, a single grid 510 could be usedto switch between a configuration that generates a high energy x-raypulse (FIG. 6A) and a configuration that generates a low energy x-raypulse (FIG. 6B). The total electron beam current will be the sum of thefilaments with and without the grid. Although FIGS. 5-6 illustrate onlytwo filaments and corresponding control grids, embodiments of thedisclosed subject matter are not limited thereto. Indeed, embodimentscan include any number of filaments and/or control grids.

Moreover, it also possible for the control grids to be held at a voltagethat partially allows electrons to pass to the anode, thereby reducingbut not eliminating an electron beam from one (or both) of thefilaments. In such a manner, the energy level of the resulting x-raypulse can be quickly tuned without altering a working current applied tothe filaments. In addition, although operation of the control grid hasbeen discussed with respect to controlling x-ray pulse energy level,other applications within the context of the present system are alsopossible. For example, the voltage applied to the control grids can beused to turn off x-ray generation between pulses, e.g., by applying avoltage to each control grid 504, 510 in FIGS. 5A-5B to repel allelectrons from respective filaments 504, 508.

Although FIGS. 5-6 illustrate GIB 202 as directly controlling grids 506,510, embodiments are not limited to this specific configuration. Indeed,other configurations are possible according to one or more contemplatedembodiments. For example, a separate generator may be interposed betweenGIB 202 and grids 506, 510. The separate generator could provide therequired control voltages for grids 506, 510 responsive to anappropriate command signal from GIB 202. In another example, generator114 can also be used to generate the necessary control voltages forgrids 506, 510 based on command signals from GIB 202. Otherconfigurations will be readily apparent to one of ordinary skill in theart and are within the scope of the present disclosure.

As noted above, a dual-energy pulse pair includes a first x-ray pulsehaving a relatively higher average x-ray energy and a second x-ray pulsehaving a relatively lower average x-ray energy. Images can be generatedby the imaging system 100 for each x-ray pulse and combined together togenerate a composite image. In general, an imaging sequence comprises atime window 704 during which exposure by the x-ray pulse occurs followedby a period 706 during which the imager (e.g., a digital x-ray detector)can read out the resulting image. Each x-ray on window 704 andcorresponding read-out period 706 may comprise an image frame 702, whichmay be repeated in sequence to acquire multiple images, with the x-raypulses in the image frames alternating between the different energylevels.

For example, a first image frame 702 may correspond to imaging using alow energy x-ray pulse 708 and an adjacent image frame 702 maycorrespond to imaging using a high energy x-ray pulse 710, as shown inFIG. 7A. For similar image signal-to-noise ratio, the higher energyx-rays can be on for a shorter time duration (i.e., smaller pulse width)than the lower energy x-rays. Thus, the pulse width for high energyx-ray pulse 710 is smaller than the pulse width for low energy x-raypulse 708. The start of each image frame 702 (and the corresponding endof the readout period 706 of the immediately previous image frame 702)can correspond with initiation of the x-ray pulse for that image frame702. Thus, a time interval 712 between an end of the low energy x-raypulse 708 and a beginning of the next high energy x-ray pulse 710 isgenerally greater than a time interval 714 between an end of the highenergy x-ray pulse 710 and a beginning of the next low energy x-raypulse 708.

The gap between low energy x-ray pulse 708 and high energy x-ray pulse710 (e.g., either interval 712 or interval 714) may influence imagequality, since internal or external motion of the patient or objectbetween timing of the x-ray pulses 708, 710 could lead tomisregistration between images or other image artifacts. Thus, inembodiments, GIB 202 can control the generator and/or x-ray tube tominimize, or at least reduce, a gap between low and high energy x-raypulses.

For example, FIG. 7B shows an example of pulse shifting by GIB 202. Incontrast to FIG. 7A, high energy x-ray pulse 710 has been shifted fromthe beginning of the x-ray on window 704 to an end period of the x-rayon window 704, such that the x-ray pulse 710 terminates just before thestart of the image readout period 706. As a result, the interval 724between the high energy x-ray pulse 710 and a subsequent low energyx-ray pulse 708 can be minimized, or at least reduced. For example, theinterval 724 may be equal to or substantially equal to a time for theimage readout period 706. Also, a time interval 722 between an end ofthe low energy x-ray pulse 708 and a beginning of the next high energyx-ray pulse 710 is generally less than a time interval 724 between anend of the high energy x-ray pulse 710 and a beginning of the next lowenergy x-ray pulse 708.

Although the high energy x-ray pulse 710 has been shifted to the end ofthe x-ray on window 704, it is also possible that the high-energy x-raypulse 710 may be maintained at the start of the x-ray on window 704 andthe low-energy x-ray pulse 708 instead be shifted to the end of thex-ray on window 704. In such a case, the minimum gap between a pair oflow and high energy x-ray pulses 708, 710 will still be equal to orsubstantially equal to a time period of the image readout period 706. Itis further contemplated that the low and high energy x-ray pulses 708,710 may initiated/terminated at other timings within x-ray on window 704than just the beginning or end of window 704, which timing control isenabled by the independent synchronization and fast switching featuresof GIB 202 and other components of the imaging system disclosed herein.

In some embodiments, GIB 202 can be configured to allow independent ordependent synchronization of the imager, for example, with respect to arespiration or cardiac signal, system status signals, a user-generatedwaveform, or any other signal. For example, in certain situations, itmay be desirable to acquire images less frequently while keeping thereadout window 706 at a minimum. GIB 202 can keep imager running at acertain frame rate (e.g., repeating image frame 702) while controllingthe generator/x-ray tube to skip x-ray irradiation during certainframes, as illustrated in FIG. 7C. Such skipping may be at regular orirregular intervals, and may include pulse pairs (high and low energyx-ray pulses) or only one of the pulses of a particular pair. Images canbe acquired by turning on x-rays only at desired times, while otherwisemaintaining synchronization between the x-ray tube and imager.

For example, the GIB 202 can be configured to direct skipping of pulsesduring imaging with a rotating gantry. In general, it is beneficial tominimize the radiation dose applied to the patient while still achievingsufficient imaging resolution. However, when imaging with a rotatinggantry, imaging at all angles may be unnecessary (e.g., duplicative ofother imaging angles, or of poorer quality due to anatomy or systemconfigurations). The GIB 202 can be programmed, or may recognize inreal-time based on image feedback, that such angles can be skipped inthe pulse train. The GIB 202 can then resume regular pulses within thepulse train once the gantry rotates to locations where imaging is againdesired.

Alternatively or additionally, the GIB 202 can elect to skip pulses inthe pulse train based on feedback from acquired images. For example, ifan image shows that the signal is insufficient for clinical imaging andchanging kV/mA/ms within the limits of operation of the x-ray tube arenot possible, the next several pulses can be skipped until the analysisshows that the signal level can be restored. This may spare the patientfrom an otherwise unnecessary x-ray dose.

In some embodiments, GIB 202 can be programmed to start and/or stop eachx-ray pulse as desired within a particular x-ray window. For example,after switching energy level or upon initiation of the x-ray pulse, thex-ray tube could take a finite time to settle on a desired output due tocharacteristic thermal delays of the x-ray tube filament. GIB 202 cancontrol a termination of the x-ray pulse to be earlier or later than apredetermined time in response to system feedback. For example, pulse710 a can be extended within x-ray on window 704 to terminate later asshown by pulse outline 710 b, while pulse 708 a can be terminatedearlier within x-ray on window 704 as shown by pulse outline 708 a.

GIB 202 can control pulse termination responsive to desired imagequality. Earlier termination may allow for more time for the filament toadjust to the next level before pulse initiation, while a latertermination may accommodate output that is still adjusting at thebeginning of the pulse. CPU 206 may process image signals providedduring each image frame 704 and can provide a feedback signal to GIB202, which may modify pulse widths in real time (e.g., during the imageframe generating the feedback signal) or to adjust pulse widths forsubsequent image frames (e.g., 708 a being modified based on dataacquired during prior pulse 708).

Although embodiments have been described above with respect to astandalone imaging system, the imaging system may serve as an imagingmodule as part of another standalone system. For example, the imagingsystem may form a part of an object conveyance system, such as a luggageconveyor belt, for package inspection. In another example, the imagingsystem may form a part of radiation therapy system. In such aconfiguration, the radiation therapy system can be configured as aradiotherapy or radiosurgery device that generates a beam of kilovolt(kV) or megavolt (MV) x-ray radiation to treat a region in patient 102.The treatment beam components of the radiation therapy system may besupported on the same gantry 106 as the imaging system 100, or may besupported on a separate structure. The treatment beam may be directed atthe patient 102 in between x-ray pulse pairs used for imaging or aftercompletion of a particular imaging sequence. In some cases, treatmentmay occur during imaging, assuming safeguards are put in place toprevent distortion of the image due to additional x-rays received by theimager 112 from the treatment beam.

For example, FIG. 8 shows an example of a pulse train of low energypulses 708 and high energy pulses 710, with a MV therapy beam 804 in atreatment frame 802 interlaced between the kV imaging pulse pairs. Thetreatment frame 802 may be immediately after the last image frame 702 ofthe pulse pair, or it may be delayed after the last image frame to allowfor sufficient time for image processing and output, as well as any timefor image analysis for locating the desired target (e.g., tumor) in theimage. Thus, the GIB-based system can be used to rapidly image thepatient using multiple energies (i.e., pulses 708 and 710) in order tobetter visualize and delineate the tumor in the patient. The informationobtained from the resulting image can be used to modify the treatmentbeam (e.g., the linac radiation map) to be more accurate. As a result,the treatment system can deliver a more precise dose to the tumor whilesparing the surrounding healthy tissue from unnecessary radiation. TheGIB can control not only the imaging but can instruct the treatmentsystem as well to modify the therapy plan on the fly.

In a non-limiting example, the imaging system is used for visualizinglung tumors in real-time, which tumors would otherwise be obstructed byoverlying ribs. Such visualization can be particularly important inmonitoring x-ray delivery during radiation therapy to the lung tumor.The imaging system can thus allow real-time or near real-time (i.e.,less than is later) monitoring of any changes in the location of thetumor, for example, due to breathing induced motion or other patient,since the original therapy plan was made.

Although much of the above noted description discusses dual-energy x-rayimaging using pulse pairs having a first higher energy and a secondlower energy, embodiments of the disclosed subject matter also includemore than two energy levels. For example, in a three energy x-rayimaging system, a pulse set having first through third successive pulsesof different energy levels (e.g., high, intermediate, and low) can beused in system 100. Operation of the GIB 202 and other system componentsmay be similar to that discussed with respect to the dual-energyconfigurations. For example, an x-ray tube for three energies may havethree filaments and three grids (similar to that shown in FIGS. 5A-5B)or three filaments with one or two grids (similar to that shown in FIGS.6A-6B).

Moreover, although embodiments discussed above have focused on imagingusing x-rays of kV energy levels from an x-ray tube, embodiments of thedisclosed subject matter are not limited thereto. Indeed, other x-raysources (e.g., linacs, synchrotrons, etc.) and/or higher x-ray energylevels (e.g., MeV range) are also possible according to one or morecontemplated embodiments. FIG. 9 illustrates such a genericconfiguration where GIB 202 controls the input power 902 to the x-raysource 904 (e.g., an electron gun) similar to the controlling offilament current in the x-ray tube configuration of FIG. 4A. The GIB 202may also control a filter module 906, for example, by moving individualor combinations of filter elements into the radiation beam path 408 tocontrol the mean energy of the resulting x-rays.

Embodiments of the disclosed subject matter include a GIB that allowsfor optimization of multi-energy imaging and radiation therapycustomization. The GIB allows not only for preloading of pulseparameters for a whole sequence of x-ray pulses, but also is capable ofmodifying the x-ray output in real-time and pulse to pulse, or to skippulses as needed while maintaining synchronization between other imagingand radiation treatment system components.

Thus, embodiments of the disclosed GIB may offer one or more thefollowing features:

-   -   change x-ray energy and simultaneously adjust the tube output in        terms of tube current (mA) and/or x-ray pulse width (ms), from        one pulse to another in a series of imaging pulses;    -   control the x-ray tube, generator and x-ray detector using a        central controller that keeps all the components synchronized        and makes forward looking decisions;    -   modify upcoming x-ray pulse parameters on the fly;    -   modify pulse parameters in real-time based on imaging        characteristics or other signals, such as respiration or gantry        rotation signals;    -   modify a radiation beam for effecting a treatment in between        image frames;    -   control and synchronize secondary system components, such as        x-ray filters or aperture, with imaging pulses;    -   control all, or at least most, of parameters associated with the        x-ray beam, including pulse timing, beam current, on-off        windows, and filter selection/actuation;    -   skip x-ray pulses in a pulse train;    -   choose the start and end of x-ray pulses within the imaging time        window; and    -   modify imaging frame rate.

In one or more first embodiments, a system comprises an x-ray source, anx-ray imager, and a generator interface box. The x-ray source isconstructed to generate a series of individual x-ray pulses. The seriescan include a first x-ray pulse having a first energy level and asubsequent second x-ray pulse having a second energy level differentfrom the first energy level. The x-ray imager is disposed so as toreceive x-rays from the x-ray source and to detect the received x-raysfor image generation. The generator interface box is configured tocontrol the x-ray source to provide the series of individual x-raypulses and to synchronize detection by the x-ray imager with generationof the individual x-ray pulses.

In the first embodiments, or any other embodiment, the x-ray sourcecomprises an x-ray tube and a generator for supplying voltage and/orcurrent to the x-ray tube to generate said series of individual x-raypulses.

In the first embodiments, or any other embodiment, the x-ray sourcecomprises at least one of an x-ray tube, a linear accelerator, abetatron, or a synchrotron.

In the first embodiments, or any other embodiment, the system furthercomprises a computer processing unit separate from the generatorinterface box and configured to process signals from the x-ray imagerindicative of the detected x-rays to generate one or more images. Thecomputer processing unit can be configured to generate a combined imagebased on a first image generated from the first x-ray pulse and a secondimage generated from the second x-ray pulse.

In the first embodiments, or any other embodiment, the generatorinterface box is configured to control voltage, current, or power inputto the x-ray source, and/or timing, pulse width, and/or energy levels ofeach of the individual x-ray pulses. The generator interface box cancontrol based on at least one of object or anatomy imaged,characteristics of the x-ray source, image quality, a signal indicativeof respiratory or cardiac motion of a patient being imaged, and anexternal input signal.

In the first embodiments, or any other embodiment, the x-ray source isconfigured to generate the first x-ray pulse during a first image frameand the second x-ray pulse during a second image frame, the x-ray imageris configured to read out during an end period of each image frame, andthe generator interface box is configured to control a timing of thefirst and second x-ray pulses in their respective image frames.

In the first embodiments, or any other embodiment, the first x-ray pulsehas a higher energy level than the second x-ray pulse, the first x-raypulse is adjacent to the end period of the first image frame, and thesecond x-ray pulse is at a beginning of the second image frame andadjacent to the end period of the first image frame.

In the first embodiments, or any other embodiment, the series ofindividual x-ray pulses includes a third x-ray pulse generated after thefirst and second x-ray pulses. The first and third x-ray pulses can havea higher energy level than the second x-ray pulse, and a time periodbetween the first x-ray pulse and the second x-ray pulse is less than atime period between the second x-ray pulse and the third x-ray pulse.

In the first embodiments, or any other embodiment, the series ofindividual x-ray pulses is a pulse train of alternating first and secondpulses, each pulse being generated during a corresponding image frame.The x-ray imager can be configured to read out during a period of eachimage frame, and the generator interface box can be configured tocontrol a timing of the x-ray pulses within their respective imageframes.

In the first embodiments, or any other embodiment, the generatorinterface box can be configured to skip one or more pulses in the pulsetrain while maintaining synchronization between the x-ray source and thex-ray imager.

In the first embodiments, or any other embodiment, the system furthercomprises a filter module having one or more selectable filter elementsto alter characteristics of an x-ray pulse passing therethrough. Thegenerator interface box can also control the filter module together withthe x-ray source in generating the series of individual x-ray pulses.

In the first embodiments, or any other embodiment, the x-ray sourcecomprises an x-ray tube with at least two filaments and a generator forsupplying voltage and/or current to the x-ray tube to generate the firstand second x-ray pulses. The generator is configured to hold eachfilament at working current during and between generation of the firstand second x-ray pulses.

In the first embodiments, or any other embodiment, the x-ray tubecomprises a grid disposed adjacent to one of the at least two filaments,and the generator interface box is configured to control a voltage ofthe grid to be a first voltage that repels electrons from an anode ofthe x-ray tube when generating the second x-ray pulse and to be a secondvoltage that electrons to pass to the anode when generating the firstx-ray pulse.

In the first embodiments, or any other embodiment, each filament of thex-ray tube has a respective grid controllable by the generator interfacebox and constructed to alter an energy of the x-ray pulse formed byelectrons from the filaments impacting an anode of the x-ray tube.

In the first embodiments, or any other embodiment, the system furthercomprises a radiation therapy module for delivering kilovolt (kV) ormegavolt (MV) energy to treat a patient.

In one or more second embodiments, a method comprises using a generatorinterface box to control an x-ray source to generate a series ofindividual x-ray pulses during respective image frames and tosynchronize image readout by an x-ray imager with a readout period ofeach image frame. The series can include at least a first x-ray pulseand a second x-ray pulse having a different energy level than that ofthe first x-ray pulse. The method can further comprise using a computerprocessing unit to process signals from the x-ray imager duringrespective image frames to generate one or more images of a patient orobject through which the first and second x-ray pulses have passed.

In the second embodiments, or any other embodiment, the x-ray sourcecomprises an x-ray tube, a linear accelerator, a betatron, or asynchrotron.

In the second embodiments, or any other embodiment, the controlling caninclude one or more of controlling timing of x-ray pulses withinrespective image frames; controlling pulse widths of the x-ray pulses;controlling energy levels of each x-ray pulse; controlling voltage,current, or power input to the x-ray source; and skipping generation ofone or more x-ray pulses.

In the second embodiments, or any other embodiment, the controlling andsynchronizing using the generator interface box is responsive to atleast one of object or anatomy imaged, characteristics of the x-raysource, characteristics of the image, image quality, a signal indicativeof respiratory or cardiac motion of a patient being imaged, and anexternal input signal.

In the second embodiments, or any other embodiment, the first x-raypulse has a higher energy level than the second x-ray pulse, the firstx-ray pulse has a pulse width less than that of the second x-ray pulse,and a time period between the first x-ray pulse and the second x-raypulse is substantially equal to the readout period.

In the second embodiments, or any other embodiment, the method furthercomprises, using the generator interface box, controlling the filtermodule to have a first configuration during generation of the firstx-ray pulse and to have a second configuration during generation of thesecond x-ray pulse. The filter module can have one or more selectablefilter elements to alter characteristics of x-rays passing therethrough.

In the second embodiments, or any other embodiment, the x-ray sourcecomprises an x-ray tube with at least two filaments, and the methodfurther comprises maintaining each filament of the x-ray tube at workingcurrent during and between the first and second x-ray pulses. The methodalso comprises, during generation of one of the first and second x-raypulses, applying a first voltage to a grid disposed adjacent to one thefilaments of the x-ray tube such that the grid repels electrons from ananode of the x-ray tube, and during generation of the other of the firstand second x-ray pulses, applying a second voltage to the grid such thatelectrons pass to the anode.

In the second embodiments, or any other embodiment, the method furthercomprises delivering kilovolt (kV) or megavolt (MV) energy to thepatient to effect a radiation therapy.

In one or more third embodiments, there is provided a non-transitorycomputer-readable storage medium, upon which is embodied a sequence ofprogrammed instructions for x-ray imaging, and a computer processingsystem that executes the sequence of programmed instructions embodied onthe computer-readable storage medium to cause the computer processingsystem to execute the method of the second embodiments, or any otherembodiment.

It will be appreciated that the aspects of the disclosed subject mattercan be implemented, fully or partially, in hardware, hardware programmedby software, software instruction stored on a computer readable medium(e.g., a non-transitory computer readable medium), or any combination ofthe above. For example, components of the disclosed subject matter,including components such as a controller, process, or any otherfeature, can include, but are not limited to, a personal computer orworkstation or other such computing system that includes a processor,microprocessor, microcontroller device, or is comprised of control logicincluding integrated circuits such as, for example, an applicationspecific integrated circuit (ASIC).

Features discussed herein can be performed on a single or distributedprocessor (single and/or multi-core), by components distributed acrossmultiple computers or systems, or by components co-located in a singleprocessor or system. For example, aspects of the disclosed subjectmatter can be implemented via a programmed general purpose computer, anintegrated circuit device, (e.g., ASIC), a digital signal processor(DSP), an electronic device programmed with microcode (e.g., amicroprocessor or microcontroller), a hard-wired electronic or logiccircuit, a programmable logic circuit (e.g., programmable logic device(PLD), programmable logic array (PLA), field-programmable gate array(FPGA), programmable array logic (PAL)), software stored on acomputer-readable medium or signal, an optical computing device, anetworked system of electronic and/or optical devices, a special purposecomputing device, a semiconductor chip, a software module or objectstored on a computer-readable medium or signal.

When implemented in software, functions may be stored on or transmittedover as one or more instructions or code on a computer-readable medium.The steps of a method or algorithm disclosed herein may be embodied in aprocessor-executable software module, which may reside on acomputer-readable medium. Instructions can be compiled from source codeinstructions provided in accordance with a programming language. Thesequence of programmed instructions and data associated therewith can bestored in a computer-readable medium (e.g., a non-transitory computerreadable medium), such as a computer memory or storage device, which canbe any suitable memory apparatus, such as, but not limited to read-onlymemory (ROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), electricallyerasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), random-access memory(RAM), flash memory, disk drive, etc.

As used herein, computer-readable media includes both computer storagemedia and communication media, including any medium that facilitatestransfer of a computer program from one place to another. Thus, astorage media may be any available media that may be accessed by acomputer. By way of example, and not limitation, such computer-readablemedia may comprise RAM, ROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM or other optical diskstorage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or anyother medium that may be used to carry or store desired program code inthe form of instructions or data structures and that may be accessed bya computer.

Also, any connection is properly termed a computer-readable medium. Forexample, if the software is transmitted from a website, server, or otherremote source using a transmission medium (e.g., coaxial cable, fiberoptic cable, twisted pair, digital subscriber line (DSL), or wirelesstechnologies such as infrared, radio, and microwave), then thetransmission medium is included in the definition of computer-readablemedium. Moreover, the operations of a method or algorithm may reside asone of (or any combination of) or a set of codes and/or instructions ona machine readable medium and/or computer-readable medium, which may beincorporated into a computer program product.

One of ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate that the abovedescription is not exhaustive, and that aspects of the disclosed subjectmatter may be implemented other than as specifically disclosed above.Indeed, embodiments of the disclosed subject matter can be implementedin hardware and/or software using any known or later developed systems,structures, devices, and/or software by those of ordinary skill in theapplicable art from the functional description provided herein.

In this application, unless specifically stated otherwise, the use ofthe singular includes the plural, and the separate use of “or” and “and”includes the other, i.e., “and/or.” Furthermore, use of the terms“including” or “having,” as well as other forms such as “includes,”“included,” “has,” or “had,” are intended to have the same effect as“comprising” and thus should not be understood as limiting.

Any range described herein will be understood to include the endpointsand all values between the endpoints. Whenever “substantially,”“approximately,” “essentially,” “near,” or similar language is used incombination with a specific value, variations up to and including 10% ofthat value are intended, unless explicitly stated otherwise.

The terms “system,” “device,” and “module” have been usedinterchangeably herein, and the use of one term in the description of anembodiment does not preclude the application of the other terms to thatembodiment or any other embodiment.

It is thus apparent that there is provided, in accordance with thepresent disclosure, systems, methods, and devices for multi-energy x-rayimaging. Many alternatives, modifications, and variations are enabled bythe present disclosure. While specific examples have been shown anddescribed in detail to illustrate the application of the principles ofthe present invention, it will be understood that the invention may beembodied otherwise without departing from such principles. For example,disclosed features may be combined, rearranged, omitted, etc. to produceadditional embodiments, while certain disclosed features may sometimesbe used to advantage without a corresponding use of other features.Accordingly, Applicant intends to embrace all such alternative,modifications, equivalents, and variations that are within the spiritand scope of the present invention.

1. A system comprising: an x-ray source constructed to generate a seriesof individual x-ray pulses, the series including at least a first x-raypulse having a first energy level and a second x-ray pulse having asecond energy level different from the first energy level; an x-rayimager disposed so as to receive x-rays from the x-ray source and todetect the received x-rays for image generation; and a generatorinterface box configured to control the x-ray source to provide theseries of individual x-ray pulses and to synchronize detection by thex-ray imager with generation of the individual x-ray pulses, wherein thegenerator interface box is further configured to simultaneously controlparameters associated with an x-ray beam resulting from the series ofindividual x-ray pulses.
 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the x-raysource comprises: an x-ray tube and a generator for supplying voltageand/or current to the x-ray tube to generate said first and second x-raypulses; a linear accelerator; a betatron; or a synchrotron.
 3. Thesystem of claim 1, further comprising a computer processing unitseparate from the generator interface box and configured to processsignals from the x-ray imager indicative of the detected x-rays togenerate one or more images.
 4. The system of claim 1, wherein saidparameters controlled by the generator interface box include: voltage,current, or power input to the x-ray source; and/or timing, pulse width,and/or energy levels of each of the individual x-ray pulses.
 5. Thesystem of claim 4, wherein the generator interface box controls based onat least one of object or anatomy imaged, characteristics of the x-raysource, image quality, a signal indicative of respiratory or cardiacmotion of a patient being imaged, and an external input signal.
 6. Thesystem of claim 1, wherein the x-ray source is configured to generatethe first x-ray pulse during a first image frame and the second x-raypulse during a second image frame, the x-ray imager is configured toread out during an end period of each image frame, and the generatorinterface box is configured to control a timing of the first and secondx-ray pulses in their respective image frames.
 7. The system of claim 6,wherein the first x-ray pulse has a higher energy level than the secondx-ray pulse, the first x-ray pulse is adjacent to the end period of thefirst image frame, and the second x-ray pulse is at a beginning of thesecond image frame and adjacent to the end period of the first imageframe.
 8. The system of claim 1, wherein the series of individual x-raypulses is a pulse train of alternating first and second pulses, eachpulse being generated during a corresponding image frame, the x-rayimager is configured to read out during a period of each image frame,the generator interface box is configured to control a timing of thex-ray pulses within their respective image frames.
 9. The system ofclaim 8, wherein the generator interface box adjusts characteristics fora pair of first and second pulses to be generated based on a currentimage frame or a prior image frame.
 10. The system of claim 8, whereinthe generator interface box is configured to skip one or more pulses inthe pulse train while maintaining synchronization between the x-raysource and the x-ray imager.
 11. The system of claim 1, furthercomprising a radiation therapy module for delivering kilovolt (kV) ormegavolt (MV) energy to treat a patient.
 12. A method comprising: usinga generator interface box, controlling an x-ray source to generate aseries of individual x-ray pulses during respective image frames, theseries including at least a first x-ray pulse and a subsequent secondx-ray pulse having a different energy level than that of the first x-raypulse; using the generator interface box, synchronizing image readout byan x-ray imager with a readout period of each image frame; and using acomputer processing unit, processing signals from the x-ray imagerduring respective image frames to generate one or more images of apatient or object through which the first and second x-ray pulses havepassed.
 13. The method of claim 12, wherein the x-ray source comprisesan x-ray tube, a linear accelerator, a betatron, or a synchrotron. 14.The method of claim 12, wherein the controlling includes one or more of:controlling timing of x-ray pulses within respective image frames;controlling pulse widths of the x-ray pulses; controlling energy levelsof each x-ray pulse; controlling voltage, current, or power input to thex-ray source; and skipping generation of one or more x-ray pulses. 15.The method of claim 12, wherein the controlling and synchronizing usingthe generator interface box is responsive to at least one of object oranatomy imaged, characteristics of the x-ray source, characteristics ofthe image, image quality, a signal indicative of respiratory or cardiacmotion of a patient being imaged, and an external input signal.
 16. Themethod of claim 12, wherein the first x-ray pulse has a higher energylevel than the second x-ray pulse, the first x-ray pulse has a pulsewidth less than that of the second x-ray pulse, and a time periodbetween the first x-ray pulse and the second x-ray pulse issubstantially equal to the readout period.
 17. The method of claim 16,further comprising delivering kilovolt (kV) or megavolt (MV) energy tothe patient to effect a radiation therapy.
 18. A non-transitorycomputer-readable storage medium upon which is embodied a sequence ofprogrammed instructions for x-ray imaging, and a computer processingsystem that executes the sequence of programmed instructions embodied onthe computer-readable storage medium to cause the computer processingsystem to: control an x-ray source to generate a series of individualx-ray pulses during respective image frames, the series including atleast a first x-ray pulse and a subsequent second x-ray pulse having adifferent energy level than that of the first x-ray pulse; andsynchronize image readout by an x-ray imager with a readout period ofeach image frame.
 19. The non-transitory computer-readable storagemedium and computer processing system of claim 18, wherein controllingthe x-ray source comprises one or more of: controlling timing of x-raypulses within respective image frames; controlling pulse widths of thex-ray pulses; controlling energy levels of each x-ray pulse; controllingvoltage, current, or power input to the x-ray source; and skippinggeneration of one or more x-ray pulses.
 20. The non-transitorycomputer-readable storage medium and computer processing system of claim18, wherein the execution of the sequence of programmed instructionsfurther causes the computer processing system to control the x-raysource and synchronize image readout based on at least one of object oranatomy imaged, characteristics of the x-ray source, characteristics ofthe image, image quality, a signal indicative of respiratory or cardiacmotion of a patient being imaged, and an external input signal.